There are a few places in the world when visited once, stay with you forever. One such place is Ladakh. It is situated in the south Kashmir district of the beautiful Himalayas, populated by people of Indo-Aryan and Tibetan origins. Once known for its head-bowing Buddhists, Ladakh has now become the go-to escape of Enfield-riding youngsters. Starting in May, the selfie-taking, hand-holding newly married couples come to Ladakh for their honeymoon, but June draws more bikers, riding Bullets from New Delhi to Leh Ladakh, covering almost 1027 km. There is no place as thrilling and as adventurous as Ladakh, and that’s what makes it so special. You can spend days exploring Ladakh but to make it easier for you, we have picked 8 unforgettable things to do in Ladakh – a medley of offbeat thrills and classic adventures.

Mountaineering Expedition

A mountaineering expedition in Ladakh promises a thrilling adventure amidst the rugged terrain and magnificent mountains. Ladakh, located in the northernmost region of India, is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Stok Kangri, Kang Yatse, and Nun Kun. The expedition typically begins with a few days of acclimatization in the charming town of Leh, followed by a challenging trek to the base camp. From there, climbers embark on a strenuous ascent, often requiring technical skills and equipment, to reach the summit. The panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks make the effort worthwhile. The region's stark natural beauty and the warmth of its people add to the experience, making Ladakh an unforgettable destination for mountaineers.

Learn About History at Leh Khar Palace

Leh Khar Palace looks like a giant sandcastle crafted by a skilled sand artist. This architectural masterpiece stands tall, overlooking the entire Ladakhi Himalayan village. While many consider it as a sidekick in their itinerary, it has a huge potential to inspire those who love everything historical.

Indus River Rafting

The Indus River, also known as the 'Sindhu,' is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flowing through the picturesque valleys of Ladakh before entering Pakistan. The rafting expedition typically starts from Phey near Leh and meanders through gorges, rapids, and calm stretches, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The rapids range from grade II to IV, making it a suitable adventure for both beginners and experienced rafters. The journey takes about three to four hours, during which participants navigate through the white waters, work together as a team, and enjoy the thrill of the rapids. The expedition ends at the picturesque village of Nimu, where the Indus and Zanskar rivers converge, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Indus River rafting is a must-try adventure for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.

Find Inner Peace at Spituk Monastery

Spituk Monastery or Spituk Gompa is the ideal place to shrug off your blues. A walk through the monastery will put your contemplative thoughts to rest. Spituk Gompa, housed in the arid hills of the Himalayas, was established by Od-de, the older brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od.

Ride Along Pangong Tso

People who have visited Ladakh, refer to Pangong Tso as ‘heaven on Earth’. It may sound like an overstatement if you’ve never visited Pangong Tso Lake, although you may have already seen its panoramic beauty in the last scene of the movie, Three Idiots. The one where Kareena Kapoor rides a yellow scooter? Ring any bells? Yes, you got it! Moving on, a manmade road that runs parallel to an azure blue lake is what makes Pangong Tso a mandatory ride.

Walk Through Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is a stunning destination that offers a unique landscape and cultural experience. The valley is accessible via a high-altitude mountain pass, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan range. Once in the valley, visitors are greeted with lush greenery and fertile fields, a rare sight in the otherwise arid and barren Ladakh region. The valley is also known for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which can be ridden through the dunes of Hunder. The region is home to several Buddhist monasteries, including the Diskit Monastery, which houses a 32-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. The valley is also dotted with traditional Ladakhi villages, where visitors can experience the local culture, including the traditional music and dance of the region. A walk through Nubra Valley is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the unique landscape and culture of this remote region.

Experience Driving on Beacon Highway

While many travelers overlook the natural beauty of Beacon Highway and avoid listing it on their itinerary, we highly recommend riding or driving on Beacon Highway. Your high-performance automobile will be logging miles while you’ll be head-banging to the song Born To Be Wild.

Explore the Ruins of Basgo

The Ruins of Basgo is a historical site that dates back to the 15th century. The site is composed of a complex of buildings, including a castle and two temples, situated on top of a hill overlooking the Indus Valley. The castle was built by the Namgyal dynasty, the rulers of Ladakh at the time, as a strategic military fortification to protect the region from invading forces. The two temples on the site, the Serzang Temple and the Chamba Temple are significant examples of Buddhist architecture and art in the region, with intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures. The Ruins of Basgo offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Ladakh and are a popular tourist destination for those interested in history, architecture, and art.

Succumb to Gravity at Magnetic Hill

We are aware that gravity pulls you down, but at the Srinagar-Leh Highway, gravity pulls you uphill. If you are not in the mood to drive, turn off your engine and let the magnetic field pull you up. Defying gravity? No. The magnetic force in this particular area is so strong that it pulls you up the road and the speed can go up to 20 km per hour.

Live with Locals Of Choglamsar

Find what it’s like to be a Tibetan by staying with one of the local families in the village of Choglamsar. Experience a whole new way of living that you wouldn’t get to experience back home.

Leh Ladakh is one of the most attractive places in India attracting not only Indians but foreigners across the globe. This article cannot do justice to the beauty of Leh Ladakh, which is why you should grab one of the Leh Ladakh packages and find out what you have been missing out on.